F-16 Cell, Fuel, Aircraft

The Defense Logistics Agency Aviation is procuring 20 units of F-16 Cell, Fuel, Aircraft (NSN: 1560-01-322-9987 WF) through solicitation SPRHA4-26-R-0081. This acquisition is restricted to two qualified sources: Axillon Aerospace (Rockmart) Inc. and Floats and Fuel Cells Inc., reflecting the specialized manufacturing and qualification requirements for aircraft fuel cells. Key contract requirements include first article testing with an evaluation cost of $15,000, comprehensive packaging and preservation standards per MIL-STD 2073-1 and MIL-STD 129, Item Unique Identifier (IUID) marking compliance, and adherence to export control restrictions on technical data. The procurement involves first article testing requirements and production articles to be delivered across multiple months beginning in 2027. The original proposal due date of January 19, 2026 was extended to January 30, 2026 by amendment, with the contracting officer being Kody R Quayle at DLA Aviation - Ogden located at Hill Air Force Base, Utah.

This solicitation contains no small business set-aside designation and is restricted to U.S. contractors only with a small business size standard of 1,250 employees under NAICS code 336413 (Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing). The procurement is classified as a DO: A1 priority order under the Defense Priorities and Allocations System. Delivery quantities will vary from 1 to 3 units per delivery across eight scheduled deliveries from August 2027 through March 2028, totaling 21 units. Manufacturers must meet extensive manufacturing qualification requirements estimated at approximately 730 days and $50,000 in costs, with additional expenditures of $1.2 million required for wet test fixtures. Performance of work will occur at the contractor's facility, with deliveries and inspections coordinated through the 416 SCMS/GUEAA at Hill Air Force Base, Utah.